Exploring the Historic Spa Culture of Karlovy Vary

The city of Karlovy Vary has a long history. It was founded by Emperor Charles IV in the 14th century. The legend says he found the springs while hunting. Since then, the town has become a top wellness destination. People from all over the world come to drink the water.

The colonnades were built to protect the springs and the guests. They allow visitors to walk and drink in any weather. Each structure has a very different architectural style. You will find Neo-Renaissance, wooden, and modern designs. These buildings are the symbols of the city today.

Visiting the springs is a unique experience. You should follow the local tradition of using a porcelain cup. These cups have a special spout for sipping. You can find them in many souvenir shops. Drinking the water is free for everyone who visits the town.

Top 13 Sights in Our Karlovy Vary Colonnades Guide

The colonnades are the heart of the city's spa culture. Each one has a unique style and different springs. You can walk between them easily in the pedestrian zone. Most of the springs are free to access for everyone. Here are the top sights you must see in 2026.

• Best overall: Mill Colonnade
• Best for history: Market Colonnade
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best for rainy days: Moser Glass Museum

1. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. The Neo-Renaissance design features 124 columns and five different mineral springs. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: Central pedestrian zone by the Tepla River. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the city center. Tip: Look for the 12 statues on the roof representing the months of the year.
2. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This beautiful white wooden structure features intricate Swiss-style carvings. It houses the Charles IV Spring, where the emperor supposedly rested. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walking distance from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: View the bronze relief above the spring showing the city's founding.
3. Name: Park Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: An elegant cast-iron structure located in a green park. It is home to the Snake Spring, which is popular with locals. Best for: Relaxing walks in nature. Where: Dvorak Park at the northern end of the spa zone. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through Dvorak Park from the city center. Tip: The Snake Spring is one of the coolest springs in the city.
4. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: It houses the Vridlo geyser, which shoots water 12 meters into the air. This is the hottest spring in Karlovy Vary. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: In the center of the spa area. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the hall. Getting there: Located in the main square. Tip: Book an underground tour to see the geyser's pipes and minerals.
5. Name: Castle Colonnade Type: Experience Why go: This colonnade is built on a hill and offers a more private atmosphere. It is divided into an upper and lower part. Best for: Spa guests and quiet views. Where: Above the Market Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free for the public part. Getting there: Climb the stairs from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Visit the upper part for a great view of the town roofs.
6. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the city and the surrounding forests. There is a restaurant and a butterfly house at the top. Best for: Families and active travelers. Where: On the hill above the city center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free entry to the tower; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Walk back down through the forest paths to see more viewpoints.
7. Name: Moser Glass Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the "Glass of Kings" and see world-class crystal art. You can watch master glassblowers at work in the factory. Best for: Cultural enthusiasts and rainy days. Where: Kpt. Jarose street, west of the center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take a local bus or taxi from the center. Tip: Buy a small glass souvenir at the museum shop for better prices.
8. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Experience Why go: Discover the secret history of Becherovka, the famous Czech herbal liqueur. The tour explains the production and the secret recipe. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: Near the main bus station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Walk from the Karlovy Vary Dolni Nadrazi station. Tip: The tour includes a tasting of different Becherovka varieties.
9. Name: St. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church Type: Sight Why go: This stunning church has brilliant golden domes and colorful walls. It is a masterpiece of Russian Orthodox architecture. Best for: Art and religion fans. Where: In the Westbury residential district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: A 15-minute walk uphill from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Respect the dress code by covering your shoulders and knees.
10. Name: Deer Jump Lookout Type: Nature Why go: It is the most famous lookout in the woods with a statue of a chamois. It offers a classic view of the spa valley. Best for: Hikers and photographers. Where: Forested slopes above the city. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the center or stop at the funicular mid-station. Tip: Visit at sunset for the most beautiful light on the buildings.
11. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Experience Why go: This legendary hotel is an icon of luxury and has appeared in many films. It is famous for its Neo-Baroque style. Best for: Luxury lovers. Where: Southern end of the main pedestrian zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view; moderate for the cafe. Getting there: Walk to the end of the Tepla river path. Tip: Have a coffee and a slice of Pupp cake in the hotel cafe.
12. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A massive medieval castle located on a rock above a bend in the river. It is only a short distance from Karlovy Vary. Best for: History lovers. Where: 15 kilometers from the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take a bus from the terminal station. Tip: Visit the torture chamber exhibit if you like spooky history.
13. Name: Svatoš Rocks Type: Day trip Why go: These granite rock formations are a National Natural Monument. They look like a wedding procession turned to stone. Best for: Outdoor fans and hikers. Where: Between Karlovy Vary and Loket. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bike or walk along the river trail. Tip: There is a nice restaurant by the bridge for a lunch break.

Essential Travel Tips for Your Visit

When you use a Karlovy Vary Colonnades guide, remember to pace yourself. The mineral water is very strong. You should only drink small amounts at first. Most doctors suggest drinking the water before meals. Check with a local expert if you have health concerns.

Walking is the best way to see the city. The main spa area is a pedestrian zone. No cars are allowed in this part of town. This makes it very peaceful for walking and exploring. Use the local bus system for longer distances.

Karlovy Vary is busy during the summer months. The International Film Festival in July brings many crowds. If you want a quiet trip, visit in the spring or autumn. The forest colors are beautiful during these seasons. Winter is also magical with fewer tourists and snow.